Gasp Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฒ
gasp
[ษกรฆsp ]
Definitions
breathe in quickly and audibly due to being out of breath or shocked
To gasp is to take a quick, audible breath in, often due to being out of breath or shocked. It is a reflex action that can occur when someone is surprised, scared, or physically exerted. Gasping can also be a sign of respiratory distress or a medical emergency.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gasp |
Used when someone takes a quick, sharp breath due to shock, surprise, or difficulty in breathing.
|
| breathe |
Refers to the regular process of taking air into and expelling it from the lungs. Can be used in both normal and stressed situations.
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| pant |
Describes breathing quickly and heavily, often due to exertion, excitement, or extreme heat. It can carry a slightly anxious or urgent tone.
|
| wheeze |
Indicates breathing with a whistling or rattling sound in the chest, typically due to illness or respiratory issues. Carries a negative connotation related to health problems.
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| gulp |
Usually refers to swallowing quickly or trying to catch one's breath with a swallowed action. Often conveys a sense of nervousness or urgency.
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Examples of usage
- She gasped in shock when she saw the accident.
- I could hear him gasp for air after running up the stairs.
- The sudden jump scare in the movie made the audience gasp with fear.
an act of taking a quick, audible breath due to being out of breath or shocked
A gasp is the act of taking a quick, audible breath in, often due to being out of breath or shocked. It is a sudden inhalation that can express surprise, fear, or excitement. Gasps are often involuntary reactions to unexpected events.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gasp |
Used when someone is suddenly surprised or struggles to breathe because of shock or pain.
|
| pant |
Describes quick, short breaths often due to exertion, excitement, or distress.
|
| wheeze |
Indicates a high-pitched, whistling sound while breathing, often because of a respiratory issue. It can have a negative connotation.
|
| gulp |
Describes quickly swallowing a large amount of liquid or breathing with difficulty. It often conveys a sense of urgency or anxiety.
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| exhale |
Describes the act of breathing out air from the lungs, often done slowly or intentionally, such as during relaxation.
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Examples of usage
- She let out a gasp of relief when she heard the good news.
- His gasp of astonishment was heard across the room.
- The silence was broken by a collective gasp from the audience.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In movies and books, a gasp often indicates a crucial plot twist, capturing the audience's attention instantly.
- Famous scenes, like a character revealing a hidden truth, commonly feature a collective gasp from the audience.
- The phrase 'gasp-worthy' is often used to describe breathtaking moments in art, nature, or design.
Psychology
- Gasping can be a physical response to fear, surprise, or excitement, showing a strong emotional reaction.
- Research shows that gasping activates the body's fight-or-flight response, reflecting the suddenness of danger.
- It's a universal gesture that connects humans, conveying surprise and concern without the need for words.
Literature
- Classic literature often employs gasps to heighten suspense and engage readers, making them feel part of the drama.
- Authors use it as a tool to create immersive experiences, allowing readers to share in the characters' emotions.
- In poetry, a gasp can symbolize loss or realization, emphasizing the depth of feeling in a brief moment.
Science
- The act of gasping can trigger increased oxygen intake, preparing the body for action or reflection.
- In creatures other than humans, gasping serves as a primary way to communicate distress or alert others in the environment.
- Understanding the physiological effects of gasping can aid in studies of the fight-or-flight response, linking psychology and biology.
Origin of 'gasp'
Main points about word origin
- The word has its roots in the Old English 'gรฆst', meaning to draw breath sharply.
- It's related to similar words in Dutch and German, reflecting the common experience of surprise across cultures.
- The transition to the modern form occurred in the 16th century, used to express sudden feelings or shocks.
The word 'gasp' has been in use since the late 14th century, derived from Old Norse 'gรฆspa', which meant 'to gasp, to yawn'. It is related to the Old English word 'gรฆpsan', meaning 'to belch, yawn'. The concept of gasping for breath or air has been a part of human experience since ancient times, reflecting the universal reaction to surprise, shock, or physical exertion.